This is our comparison of Merrick vs Blue Buffalo dog food brands.
As a canine Nutritionist and pet owner, I have bought various dog foods. My main concern was always providing my pets with the best nutrition.
I have researched these product lines in-depth to determine what sets them apart.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best for your pet.
These are among the most important factors to consider.
- Ingredient quality,
- Guaranteed Analysis,
- Product safety,
- Cost
While both product lines provide good overall nutritional value, the best brand for your dog depends on your dog’s needs.
Let’s get started!
Merrick Vs Blue Buffalo Introduction
Merrick and Blue Buffalo are two popular dog food brands known for using high-quality ingredients and producing a wide variety of options for different types of dogs. Both brands offer a range of dry and wet foods, treats, and other supplementary products.
Merrick is a Texas-based company that was founded in 1988. In addition to its regular product line, the brand offers grain-free options and limited-ingredient diets for dogs with specific dietary needs or sensitivities. In addition to its standard product line, the brand provides grain-free options and limited-ingredient diets for dogs with specific nutritional requirements or sensitivities. The brand uses natural ingredients such as deboned meat, fruits, and vegetables. Merrick also sources its ingredients from trusted local farms and facilities.
Blue Buffalo is another well-known brand that was founded in 2002.
Like Merrick, Blue Buffalo emphasizes using natural, whole ingredients in its products, including high-quality protein sources like deboned chicken, fish, and lamb. The company also uses wholesome grains, vegetables, and fruits in its recipes and does not use any chicken or poultry by-product meals.
Blue Buffalo offers a wide range of products, including grain-free and limited ingredient options and wet and dry foods and treats.
Both Merrick and Blue Buffalo are highly regarded by pet owners and veterinarians for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and producing nutritionally complete and balanced products. When choosing a dog food, you must consider your dog’s specific needs and preferences and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Product range comparison
Merrick
Merrick is a famous brand of dog food that has been around for over 25 years. The company is known for using high-quality, natural ingredients in its products and for being committed to providing the best possible nutrition for dogs.
One of the standout features of the Merrick product range is the wide variety of options available. Whether you have a small toy breed or a large working dog, a formula is tailored to meet your dog’s specific needs.
Some of the products in their range include:
The Merrick Classic Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe is a highly nutritious and delicious dog food that is perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes. This recipe is made with high-quality beef as the first ingredient, providing a rich protein source and essential amino acids for your furry friend.
In addition to the natural beef, this recipe also includes brown rice, a highly digestible carbohydrate that provides a good energy source and fiber. Brown rice is also a great source of B vitamins, essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting overall wellness.
Other key ingredients in this recipe include sweet potatoes, peas, and apples, which provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
One of the best things about the Merrick Classic Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe is that it is made with all-natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Here are some reviews of the product from real owners:
“My dogs love this food! It has a good balance of protein and carbs, and the ingredients are all high quality. I also appreciate that it’s made with real beef and brown rice, both good nutrition sources for my pups. Since switching to this brand, I’ve noticed a difference in their coat and energy levels.”
“I’ve been feeding my dog the Merrick Classic Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe for over a year, and I’m thrilled with the results. His coat is shinier, and his energy levels are much higher. He also seems less prone to stomach issues since switching to this food. I highly recommend it to any dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious food option.”
“I have a picky eater at home, but my dog gobbles up this food without any hesitation. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health since switching to the Merrick Classic Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe. He seems to have more energy, and his coat is much softer and shinier. I’m definitely sticking with this brand.”
“I have a senior dog with a sensitive stomach, and this food has been a godsend. It’s gentle on her digestive system, and she loves the taste. I appreciate that it’s made with real beef and brown rice, which provide the nutrition she needs at her age. I’ve noticed a noticeable improvement in her energy levels since switching to this food. I would definitely recommend it to other dog owners with senior pets.”
Also, some reviewers have commented on the high price of the food, but many feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to their dog’s health are worth the cost.
Overall, the Merrick Classic Real Beef and Brown Rice Recipe seem to be a popular and well-regarded choice among pet owners looking for high-quality, grain-inclusive dog food.
In addition to dry kibble, Merrick offers wet food options, such as pâté, stew, and chunky meat. These options are great for adding variety to your dog’s diet and can be mixed with the dry kibble for a balanced meal.
One of the standout features of Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie Wet Dog Food is its use of whole food sources, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas, to provide a balanced and varied diet for dogs. These ingredients are slow-cooked in a savory broth, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that dogs love.
In addition to its natural ingredients, Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie Wet Dog Food is also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie, Wet Dog Food, is a high-quality, nutrient-rich option for dogs of all sizes and life stages. Its combination of whole-food ingredients and delicious broth makes it a tasty and healthy choice for any dog.
There are mixed reviews for Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie Wet Dog Food. Some customers praised the product’s high-quality ingredients and delicious taste, noting that their dogs enjoyed the flavor.
Others have complained about the product’s high price and small portion size, stating that it does not provide enough food for their dogs. Some customers have reported that their dogs have had digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, after eating this food.
Overall, it seems that while some dogs may enjoy and benefit from Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie Wet Dog Food, it may not be suitable for all dogs and may not provide the best value for the price
This grain-free, freeze-dried raw food is made with real game birds, including duck, pheasant, and quail, as the first ingredient. It also includes nutritious vegetables, fruits, sweet potatoes, peas, blueberries, and added vitamins and minerals for complete and balanced nutrition.
One of the standout features of this recipe is the natural infusion process. The freeze-dried natural pieces are infused into the kibble, providing the benefits of a raw diet without freezing or thawing. This makes it convenient for pet owners to feed their pets a raw diet without the hassle of handling raw meat.
In addition to the high-quality ingredients, the Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe is made in the USA, using locally sourced ingredients. This supports local businesses and ensures that the ingredients are fresh and of the highest quality.
Summoning it all, the Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe is an excellent option for pet owners who want to provide their pets with a healthy, high-quality diet.
Overall, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe reviews are positive. Customers rave about the high-quality ingredients, and the food is made with authentic, whole pieces of game birds. Many reviewers also mention that their pets love the taste of the food and that it has improved their health and appearance.
Some reviewers have mentioned that the price is a bit high, but many feel it is worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the benefits their pets experience.
One customer said, “I have a picky eater and she loves this food! I can tell a difference in her coat and overall health since switching to this brand. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for the quality of ingredients.”
Another said, “I have been feeding my dog this food for over a year and she absolutely loves it. It has improved her coat, digestion, and overall health. The price is a bit steep, but I feel good knowing that she is getting high-quality nutrition.”
Overall, it seems that customers are delighted with the Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe and are happy with the results they have seen in their pets.
Merrick Whole Earth dog food is a high-quality, grain-free option for dogs. It is made with raw ingredients such as deboned chicken, turkey, and duck, as well as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. This recipe is also supplemented with vitamins and minerals to ensure that it meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
One of the standout features of this dog food is that it is made with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This is important for dogs with sensitivities or allergies to these additives.
In terms of taste, most dogs seem to enjoy the flavor of Merrick Whole Earth dog food. The chunks of real meat provide a delicious taste and a satisfying texture. Including vegetables and other whole ingredients adds to the overall nutrition and flavor of the recipe.
One potential downside to this dog food is that it may be on the pricier side compared to some other options on the market. However, using high-quality ingredients and the lack of artificial additives may make it worth the extra cost for some pet owners.
Merrick Whole Earth dog food is a solid choice for dog owners looking for a grain-free, whole-ingredient option for their furry friend. The lack of artificial additives and the inclusion of real meat and vegetables make it a nutritious and tasty choice for dogs of all sizes and breeds.
Overall, the reviews for Merrick Whole Earth dog food are generally positive. Many reviewers mention that their dogs enjoy the taste and thrive on the food. There are also several comments about the high quality of the ingredients and the use of natural and organic ingredients.
One reviewer noted that their dog, who had previously struggled with digestive issues, seemed to have fewer problems after switching to Merrick Whole Earth. Others mentioned that their dogs had increased energy and better coat health after switching to the food.
There were a few negative reviews, with some reviewers noting that their dogs did not enjoy the taste or experienced digestive issues after switching to the food. However, these reviews were in the minority.
Merrick Whole Earth dog food is a high-quality option for owners looking for natural and organic pet food. While it may not be suitable for all dogs, most reviewers had positive experiences with the food.
These treats are made with naturally deboned beef and are grain-free. They are perfect for training or as a reward for good behavior.
One of the standout features of these treats is their high protein content, which helps to support muscle maintenance and growth in your dog. The protein is sourced from high-quality, deboned chicken, the first ingredient listed on the package.
In addition to protein, these treats are also a good source of fiber, thanks to the sweet potatoes in the recipe. Sweet potatoes are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, potassium, and iron.
Merrick Power Bites Jerky Dog Treats are also grain-free, making them a suitable option for dogs with sensitivities or allergies to grains. They are also made in the USA, ensuring that you can trust the quality and safety of the treats you are feeding your dog.
The Merrick Power Bites Jerky Dog Treats have received very positive customer reviews. They are made with real chicken as the first ingredient, which is a big plus for many pet owners.
One common theme among the reviews is that these treats are expensive, but most customers feel they are worth the price. The treats are also very convenient to bring on the go, as they come in small, bite-sized pieces that are easy to pack and carry.
Many reviewers have also mentioned that these treats are an excellent option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as they are made with simple and wholesome ingredients. The small size of the treats makes them easy to break up and use as a training reward or as a quick snack throughout the day.
Overall, the Merrick Power Bites Jerky Dog Treats seem to be a hit with both dogs and their owners. They are made with high-quality ingredients, are convenient for on-the-go snacking, and are an excellent option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
These treats are made with natural ingredients such as parsley, mint, and fennel, which help freshen breath and promote healthy gums.
One of the standout features of these treats is their shape and texture. They are designed to mimic a toothbrush, with ridges and grooves that help scrub away plaque and tartar. As your dog chews on the treats, they gently clean their teeth and gums, promoting healthy dental hygiene.
In addition to their dental benefits, these treats are grain-free, making them an excellent option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. They are made with high-quality proteins, such as real chicken and turkey, and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Not only do these treats benefit your dog’s dental health, but they also provide a tasty and satisfying snack. They come in small and large sizes, making them suitable for dogs of all sizes.
Overall, Merrick Fresh Kisses Dental Treats are a fantastic choice for dog owners looking to promote healthy teeth and gums in their furry friends. They are a convenient and effective way to support your dog’s dental health while providing a tasty and grain-free snack.
There are mixed reviews for Merrick Fresh Kisses Dental Treats. Some customers rave about the treats’ effectiveness in helping clean their dog’s teeth and freshen their breath, while others have had negative experiences.
Positive reviews:
“These treats have been a game changer for my dog’s dental health. Her teeth are much cleaner and her breath is much fresher since we started giving her these treats daily.”
“I have noticed a significant difference in my dog’s dental health since giving him these treats. They are easy for him to chew and he loves the taste.”
“I love the fact that these treats are made with natural ingredients and do not contain any artificial preservatives. My dog loves them and they have made a noticeable difference in his dental health.”
Negative reviews:
“I was disappointed in these treats. My dog did not seem to enjoy the taste and I did not see any improvement in his dental health.”
“These treats caused my dog to have an upset stomach. I will not be purchasing them again.”
“I was not impressed with the size of these treats. They are quite small and I do not think they provide enough chewing time to be effective in cleaning my dog’s teeth.”
Merrick offers a range of grain-free and limited-ingredient formulas for dogs with specific dietary needs. These options are perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities and are made with a single protein source to help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.
Another great feature of the Merrick product range is the use of superfoods in many of their formulas, as we have seen before. These ingredients, such as blueberries, sweet potatoes, and coconut oil, are packed with nutrients and help support your dog’s overall health and wellness.
Overall, the Merrick product range is an excellent choice for dog owners looking for high-quality, natural options for their furry friends. With a wide variety of flavors and formulas to choose from, there is something for every dog’s needs and preferences.
Blue Buffalo
Blue Buffalo is a brand of dog food that offers a wide range of products, including dry dog food, wet dog food, and treats. Some of the notable product lines within the Blue Buffalo brand include:
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food is a premium brand formulated with high-quality protein sources, wholesome grains, vegetables, and fruit. It does not contain chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
The primary protein sources in Blue Buffalo Life, Protection Dog Food, include real meat, fish, or poultry, such as deboned chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb. It also contains wholesome grains like brown rice, barley, and oatmeal and vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, and carrots.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food offers a range of formulas to meet the specific nutritional needs of dogs’ different life stages and sizes. It has options for puppies, adults, seniors, and small breeds. It also offers limited ingredient and grain-free formulas for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food is a high-quality and nutritious choice for dogs of all life stages and sizes. It is formulated with natural ingredients and does not contain artificial additives or fillers, making it a healthy and tasty option for your furry friend.
Many reviews praise the high quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvements in their dog’s health and coat.
Some users have reported that their dogs seem to prefer the taste of Blue Buffalo over other brands, and it has also been noted to be effective in weight management for dogs prone to obesity.
However, some reviewers have mentioned that the food is pricier and that their dogs have experienced digestive issues after switching to Blue Buffalo. It is important to gradually transition your dog to a new food and consult with a veterinarian if any digestive problems arise.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food appears to be a high-quality option for those looking to feed their dogs a natural and nutritious diet.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is a high-protein, grain-free option for dogs of all sizes and life stages. It is made with real meat as the first ingredient, such as chicken, salmon, or lamb, and includes a blend of fruits and vegetables for added nutrition.
One of the unique features of Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is the inclusion of LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are cold-formed to preserve their potency. These bits are mixed into the kibble to boost your dog’s nutrition.
In addition to the high-quality protein and vegetables, Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food also includes blueberries, cranberries, and sweet potatoes as sources of natural fiber and antioxidants. These ingredients help support a healthy immune system and provide a balanced diet for your dog.
One of the main benefits of choosing Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is that it is grain-free. Many dogs have sensitivities to grains, which can cause digestive issues or allergic reactions. By eliminating grains from the diet, you can help reduce the likelihood of these issues.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is a high-quality, nutritious option for dogs of all sizes and life stages. Its focus on real meat and vegetables and the inclusion of LifeSource Bits make it an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with the best nutrition.
Many dog owners rave about the high-quality ingredients and the benefits their dogs have experienced from eating this food brand.
One customer said their dog’s coat became shinier, and their energy levels increased after switching to Blue Buffalo Wilderness. Another customer said their senior dog’s joint pain improved after switching to this food.
However, some customers have reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues after switching to Blue Buffalo Wilderness. Some have also complained about the high price point.
Overall, the reviews for Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food are primarily positive, with many customers praising the high-quality ingredients and the benefits they have seen in their dogs. However, it’s important to note that every dog is different and what works for one may not work for another, so it’s always best to consult a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Blue Buffalo Basics is a line of dog food designed to be a more natural and grain-free option for pets. The primary protein source in this formula is real chicken, a high-quality and easily digestible protein for dogs. It also includes sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes as sources of carbohydrates, as well as blueberries, cranberries, and sweet potatoes for added nutrients and antioxidants.
One of the standout features of Blue Buffalo Basics is that it is formulated to be free of common allergens, such as corn, wheat, and soy. This makes it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. It also contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, which can harm pets.
In addition to the regular adult formula, Blue Buffalo Basics also offers a limited-ingredient formula for pets with more severe food allergies. This formula includes only a single protein source (turkey or lamb) and a few simple carbohydrates, making it easier for pets to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Blue Buffalo Basics is a high-quality dog food option for pets with various dietary needs. It is made with natural, whole ingredients and does not contain any artificial additives, making it a good choice for pet owners looking for an honest and healthy option for their furry friends.
Here are some reviews from customers who have fed their dogs Blue Buffalo Basics:
“I have been feeding my dog Blue Buffalo Basics for the past year and I am really happy with the results. My dog has more energy, a shinier coat, and his stools are much firmer. I also appreciate that the food is made with real meat and does not contain any fillers or artificial preservatives.”
“I switched my dog to Blue Buffalo Basics after reading about the brand’s commitment to using only natural ingredients. My dog has a sensitive stomach and this food has been great for her. No more stomach issues or diarrhea! Plus, she loves the taste and always finishes her meals.”
“I have two senior dogs and I wanted to find a food that would support their health as they age. Blue Buffalo Basics has been perfect for them. They have more energy, their coats are softer, and they seem more satisfied after eating. I highly recommend this brand for older dogs.”
“I have been using Blue Buffalo Basics for my small breed dog for about a year now and I am extremely satisfied with the results. My dog has a shiny coat, good energy levels, and no digestive issues. I also appreciate that the food is made with real chicken and does not contain any corn or wheat.”
Overall, it seems that customers are generally happy with Blue Buffalo Basics dog food and have noticed positive changes in their dogs’ health and behavior after switching to this brand.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe dog food is a high-quality, grain-free option for dogs with real chicken as the first ingredient. For added nutrition, it also contains vegetables and fruits, such as sweet potatoes and blueberries.
This formula does not contain chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy, making it suitable for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. It is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Dog Food has generally received positive reviews from customers. Many reviewers have noted that their dogs seem to enjoy the taste of the food and have experienced improved coat condition and overall health since switching to this brand.
Some reviewers have also mentioned that the kibble size suits their dogs, making the food easy to digest.
However, some reviewers have reported that their dogs have experienced gastrointestinal issues after switching to this brand. A few have noted that the food seems more expensive than other options on the market.
Most customers have had positive experiences with Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Dog Food and would recommend it to other pet owners.
Blue Buffalo Freedom dog food is a line of high-quality, grain-free dry dog food made with real meat as the first ingredient. The Freedom line is specifically formulated for adult dogs and features a variety of flavors, including chicken, lamb, and fish.
One of the main benefits of Blue Buffalo Freedom dog food is that it is made with natural ingredients, including real meat, fruits, and vegetables. It is free from fillers and artificial preservatives, often found in cheaper dog food brands.
In addition to the high-quality ingredients, Blue Buffalo Freedom dog food is formulated to provide the essential nutrients that dogs need to maintain a healthy diet. This includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help support a robust immune system and overall health.
One of the standout features of Blue Buffalo Freedom dog food is its grain-free formula. This is ideal for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities, as it eliminates the risk of allergic reactions or digestive issues.
Many reviewers rave about the brand’s natural ingredients, saying their dogs have improved coat health and overall wellness since switching to Blue Buffalo Freedom.
One reviewer praised the brand’s use of real chicken as the first ingredient, saying that their dog’s energy levels and muscle tone improved significantly. Another reviewer noted that their dog’s allergies disappeared after switching to Blue Buffalo Freedom.
Most reviewers were satisfied with the brand and would recommend it to other pet owners.
However, a few reviewers reported that their dogs had digestive issues or experienced weight gain after switching to Blue Buffalo Freedom.
It’s important to always consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.
Product range Comparison verdict
Summarizing, both of the products are obtaining quite good reviews from their customers
- Merrick:
Many reviewers rave about the high-quality ingredients and improvement in their pets’ health after switching to Merrick. The company also receives praise for its commitment to sourcing and producing its products in the USA. Some customers have reported that the pricing is on the higher side but feel it is worth it for the quality of the food.
- Blue Buffalo:
Blue Buffalo also has a strong reputation for using high-quality, natural ingredients in their products. Customers report that their pets have had improved energy levels and coat conditions after switching to Blue Buffalo. Some reviewers show concerns about the company’s recall history, but overall the brand has received positive customer feedback. The pricing of Blue Buffalo is generally considered to be in the mid-range for premium pet food brands.
In terms of range comparison, both Merrick and Blue Buffalo offer various options for different life stages, sizes, and specific needs (such as grain-free or weight management). Both brands also provide wet and dry food options.
Both brands seem well-regarded by customers and offer high-quality, nutritious dog options.
Quality Comparison
When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your furry friend, it can be overwhelming with the abundance of options available. Two popular brands that stand out are Merrick and Blue Buffalo. But how do these two compare in terms of quality and ingredients?
- Merrick
This brand prides itself on using high-quality, whole ingredients and never any fillers or by-products. They also source their ingredients locally whenever possible. One unique aspect of Merrick is their use of deboned meats as the first ingredient in their recipes. This ensures that your dog is getting a protein-rich diet. They also include a variety of fruits and vegetables for added nutrition.
According to reviews, many pet owners are satisfied with the quality of Merrick dog food and noticed improvements in their dogs’ health and well-being after switching to this brand. Some ingredients commonly found in Merrick dog food include real meat, fruits, and vegetables and beneficial supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. Many recipes are also grain-free and free from artificial preservatives and flavors.
In terms of the specific products, the Merrick Classic grain-free line has received mainly positive reviews for its variety of protein sources and lack of common allergens like corn and soy. The Merrick Backcountry line, which features freeze-dried raw ingredients, has also been well-received by customers.
Merrick appears to be a highly regarded dog food brand that many pet owners prefer for its high-quality ingredients and positive effects on dogs’ health.
- Blue Buffalo
This brand also touts the use of high-quality, whole ingredients in their recipes. They also include a blend of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in their recipes for added nutrition. They also mix vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in their recipes for added food. They also do not use chicken or poultry by-products and avoid common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy.
Overall, Blue Buffalo dog food has received positive reviews in terms of quality. Many customers have reported that their dogs have had improved coat health, increased energy levels, and improved overall health after switching to Blue Buffalo.
Blue Buffalo sources its proteins from real meat, poultry, or fish and uses whole grains, vegetables, and fruit in its recipes. The brand also does not use corn, wheat, or soy in its formulas, which can be allergens for some dogs.
Additionally, Blue Buffalo has a line of grain-free options for dogs with sensitivities or allergies to grains. These formulas use alternative sources of carbs like sweet potatoes and peas.
However, some customers have reported finding hard, inedible pieces in their bags of Blue Bdogs’o kibble, which can concern dogs’ dental health. It is essential to carefully examine the kibble before feeding it to your dog to ensure no complex pieces are present.
Overall, Blue Buffalo appears to be a high-quality brand that uses quality ingredients in its recipes. It is always essential to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Merrick vs Blue Buffalo verdict in terms of quality comparison
Regarding quality, both Merrick and Blue Buffalo have excellent reputations. They both use whole, high-quality ingredients and avoid fillers and by-products. However, one difference is that Blue Buffalo includes whole grains in their recipes, while Merrick does not. Whether or not this is positive or negative depends on your dog’s preference and specific dietary needs.
Overall, Merrick and Blue Buffalo offer high-qualitIt’stions for your furry friend. It’s essential to do your dog’s research and consider your dog’s specific needs when choosing the best food for them.
Nutritional value
It is difficult to compare the nutritional value of Merrick and Blue Buffalo dog food as they offer different types of products with varying ingredients and formulations. However, some general points of comparison can be made:
- Protein content: Both brands offer high-protein options for dogs, with protein sources ranging from meat to fish to poultry.
- Fat content: Both brands offer options with moderate to high-fat levels, depending on the specific product and the intended age and size of the dog.
- Carbohydrate content: Both brands offer options with varying levels of carbohydrates, depending on the specific product and the intended age and size of the dog. Some options may contain grains, while others may be grain-free.
- Additives: Both brands offer options with added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness.
It is essential to carefully review the ingredients and nutritional information on any dog food product packaging before making a purchase. Depending on their specific needs and health conditions, different products may be more suitable for dogs.
We will compare two examples of two different equivalent ranges of both brands so you can see their nutritional value:
Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe:
- Protein: 25%
- Fat: 16%
- Fiber: 3%
- Moisture: 10%
Blue Buffalo Freedom Small Breed Recipe:
- Protein: 26%
- Fat: 14%
- Fiber: 3%
- Moisture: 10%
Merrick Classic Large Breed Recipe:
- Protein: 25%
- Fat: 14%
- Fiber: 3%
- Moisture: 10%
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Recipe:
- Protein: 26%
- Fat: 14%
- Fiber: 3%
- Moisture: 10%
Both brands offer similar protein, fat, fiber, and moisture levels in their dog food recipes. However, it is essential to note that each dog has different nutritional needs, and it is always best to consult a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Price range
- Merrick
Its dog food prices range from $1.99 to $22.99 per pound, with an average price of $4.99 per pound.
- Blue Buffalo
Its dog food prices range from $1.79 to $59.99 per pound, with an average price of $5.99 per pound.
Overall, Merrick and Blue Buffalo offer a wide range of dog food options at similar price points. However, Blue Buffalo tends to have more expensive options, with some of their high-end recipes costing up to $59.99 per pound. Merrick also offers a variety of budget-friendly options, with some of their lower-end recipes priced at $1.99 per pound. Ultimately, the cost of these brands will depend on the specific recipe and size of the bag you choose.
Recalls and Product Safety
Merrick and Blue Buffalo are well-known dog food brands that have faced a recall in recent years. While both companies have taken steps to improve the safety of their products, there are some differences in the types of memories they have faced and the measures they have taken to address these issues.
Merrick
Merrick has faced several recalls over the years,
- One in 2017 for potentially elevated levels of beef thyroid hormone in some of their canned dog food. In response, the company initiated a voluntary recall of the affected products and implemented additional testing measures to ensure the safety of their products.
- Another recall occurred in 2019 due to the potential presence of salmonella in some of their dry dog food. The company again initiated a voluntary recall and implemented additional testing and sanitation measures to prevent future issues.
Blue Buffalo
Blue Buffalo has also faced several recalls.
- One in 2016 for potentially elevated levels of vitamin D in some of their products, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. The company voluntarily recalled the affected products and implemented additional testing and quality control measures to prevent future issues.
- In 2018, Blue Buffalo faced a recall due to the potential presence of metal fragments in some of their wet dog food. The company voluntarily recalled the affected products and implemented additional quality control measures to prevent future issues.
Overall, both Merrick and Blue Buffalo have faced recalls due to potential safety concerns in their products. While both companies have taken steps to address these issues and improve the safety of their products, it is essential for pet owners to stay informed about any recalls and to choose a brand that has a strong track record of product safety.
You can search for a list of current FDA recalls here. Be sure to continue tracking the recall status of any dog or cat food pet to ensure that your pet’s diet is safe.
Overall Winner
Merrick and Blue Buffalo are two popular brands of dog food that offer a similar range of products and a similar range of reviews, which makes it a bit difficult to choose one from another. We are breaking it down into:
Ingredients:
- Both brands use high-quality, natural ingredients in their recipes. Merrick sources its proteins from real meat, while Blue Buffalo uses real meat, fish, and poultry as its primary protein sources.
- Both brands also use whole grains and vegetables in their recipes, with Merrick using brown rice, sweet potatoes, and peas, Blue Buffalo using brown rice, whole oats, and sweet potatoes.
- Both brands also use fruits as sources of vitamins and antioxidants, with Merrick using apples, blueberries, and cranberries and Blue Buffalo using apples, blueberries, and cranberries.
Quality:
- Both brands have a reputation for producing high-quality dog food made with care and attention to detail.
- Merrick has a five-star rating, while Blue Buffalo has a four-star rating.
- Merrick has also been certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), while Blue Buffalo has not.
Price:
- In terms of price, both brands are similar, offering a range of products at different price points.
- Merrick has a wide range of products, including dry dog food, wet dog food, and treats, while Blue Buffalo focuses more on dry dog food and wet dog food.
- The prices of both brands may vary depending on the specific product and the size of the bag.
Overall, Merrick and Blue Buffalo are high-quality brands offering various products for various life stages and dietary needs. While both brands use high-quality, natural ingredients, Merrick has a higher rating and is certified by the AAFCO, while Blue Buffalo has not. In terms of price, both brands offer a range of products at different price points.
Ultimately, the choice between the two brands will depend on the dog’s specific needs.
What’s next?
If you liked this review, why don´t you check more brand comparison reviews here?
If you would like to check some brand reviews, you can do it here
Also, if your dog has a particular issue and you are researching more targeted dog food to cover its needs, you can check some reviews here.
In addition, why not consider these dog Food Supplement guides?
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